Being an archipelago composed of thousands of islands, it is not surprising to note that the Philippines boast of majestic coastlines that would surely make the Philippines among the worthy contingent for the beach capital of the world.
Boracay Island
White Beach in Boracay / Photos by Brian Flores
Party and beach rolled into one – a perfect description of Boracay in Aklan. For many years now, this beach has become one of the compelling reasons to visit the Philippines. It has become a worldwide tourist attraction. Aside from its fine, white sand, Boracay has a long list of beach escapades to offer like fun beach activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, diving helmet, parsailing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, cliff diving and a lot more. Exploring the coastline will also keep you pre-occupied for days as there are a lot of restaurants and bars to frequent to during the day and night.
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Bantayan Island, Cebu
When you hear about Bantayan Island, the first that comes into your head is a one-of-a-kind experience of authentic culture and nature’s beauty rolled in an island filled with one of the oldest remnants of Philippine history. Its beaches has become enough reason for tourists far and wide to come to the Philippines just to frolic on its white sand and bathe in its clear water. Aside from the beach, you can also go to Ogtong Cave and experience a grand escapade in the nearby Malapascua Island.
Calaguas Island, Camarines Norte
Calaguas Island / Photos by Gay General
If one paradise is not enough, what about getting a bunch of them? Calaguas is a group of islands composed of three major islands Tinaga, Guintinua and Maculabo and some minor islands that showcase the true definition of nature’s beauty. The most famous and most frequented is Tinaga because of the reputed Mahabang Buhangin beach which offers fine, powdery white sand and respite from the hustle and bustle of modern living.
El Nido, Palawan
7 Commando Island / Photos by Gay General
It is not about what to find wonderful in this place, but the more appropriate question would be what is not wonderful to find in this place. This municipality stretches 260 miles from the country’s center and the whole expanse of the island breathes world-class experience. Interesting places to visit include Bacuit Bay, Bakay Tubay, Cadlao Island, Ille Cave, Dilumacad Island, Aberawan River, Pangulasian Island, Pinasil Island, Vigan Island, Cudugnon Point and Matinloc Island which nestles the Secret Beach and Kulasa Beach.
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Panglao Island, Bohol
Alona Beach in Panglao Bohol
Panglao, amidst being the tourist magnet in Bohol, has maintained its laid back feel. No wonder it has become a favorite hangout and even retirement place for many foreign nationals. The island offers fun, night life experience but what it is proud of is its stunning beaches, wonderful coral reef formations perfect for diving and neighboring islets that reminds you how beautiful nature really is. Panglao is also close to other Bohol tourist spots like the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary and the Loboc River cruise.
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Coron, Palawan
A one-day escapade is all you need to enjoy a back-to-back-to-back experience in Black Island, Malacapuya Island and Banana Island and the Bulog Dos islets, the top reasons why you need to have Coron, Palawan in your top places to visit in the Philippines. Aside from marveling at the blue and clear water and white-sand beaches of the islands, you can also explore the local community’s pearl farms and seaweed plantations. If these are not enough, you can always dive and explore the sunken Japanese warships around Coron.
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Samal Island, Davao del Norte
Although the island belongs to the province of Davao del Norte, Samal is often associated with its much nearer neighbour and more accessible Davao City. But what made Samal famous and frequently visited by neighboring locals and foreign nationals are its beaches and resort accommodation. Most recommended are Dayang Beach, Isla Reta and Pearl Farm because they offer world-class experience which could be at par with more popular international beach resorts. From diving, snorkelling and other beach activities to the food and experience, Samal has got it all.
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Palaui Island in Cagayan Valley
Although this island is understatedly challenging to reach given that it is situated at the tip most portion of Luzon particularly in the municipality of Sta. Ana, everything that you bargained for just to get to this place will be all worth it. Aside from the staple beach activities and the pristine and rigged beaches, you can also go hiking and trekking and explore every nook and cranny of Palaui like the famous Farol de Cabo Engaño, the Siwangag Cove and visit the neighboring Crocodile, Manidad and Mapurao islands. The place does not offer highly commercialized accommodation so expect to stay in one of the homes of the locals or pitch your own tent in Punta Verde. Bring enough cash since all your tours at sea will be done by boat and for a price.
Siargao
Siargao is famous for a lot of things – especially for its beaches. When visiting Siargao, tourists never miss an island hopping adventure touring the three well-reputed islands in the area, namely, Naked Island, Guyam Island and Dako Island. Most frequented is Dako Island because, as its name suggests, it is biggest of the three and is publicly accessible. It also offers a perfect secluded island getaway with its laid back ambience made more unforgettable by the powdery, white sand and clean, blue water. You can stay overnight in one of the modest huts and feast on sweet coconut juice offered by the locals.
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Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
Saud Beach Resort
Pagudpud offers not one but two vacation options that offer both seclusion and adventure. Blue Lagoon houses the over-the sea zipline escapade while Saud Beach has its long stretch of white sand and heavenly paradise to offer. If the lagoon and the beach is still not enough for you, there are also other scenic areas where tourists can visit, namely, the Patapat Viaduct, Kabigan Falls, Bangui Windmills and many more.
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Malapascua Island, Cebu
Photo from Malapascua Exotic Island Dive Resort
Situated at the northern most portion of Cebu, the island is famous for the rich ecosystem that flourishes in its waters. Malapascua is a sunken island with a 230-meter drop off and the abundance that Malapascua offers has attracted the Thresher Shark. This is the reason why diving adventures have become common and popular around the island because these sharks are easy to spot given the exact time and location. Aside from an extraordinary diving adventure, the island in itself is a beauty which has more to offer to its visitors. To name a few, tourists can go beach bumming, biking and cliff jumping for the adventurous at heart.
Anguib Beach in Sta Ana, Cagayan
Photo from uperhappytotravel.blogspot.com
This beach belongs under the goldmine list of beaches in the Philippines. The place does not have any commercial establishments save for simple resorts that offer accommodation, thus it is ideal for those vacation goers who want adventure and respite rolled into one. During non-peak seasons, you can have the island to yourself together with the locals who are nothing but accommodating. There are only designated areas where camping and cooking are allowed so make sure to ask first before you start pitching your tent.
Sta. Cruz Island in Zamboanga City
If you have had enough of white beaches, maybe you might get interested to take some time off in an island getaway with pink sand. Yes, you heard it right – pink coralline sand courtesy of red organ pipe coral pulverized and mixed with white sand. Open to the public is the bigger Sta. Cruz Grande while the little one, Little Sta. Cruz is off limits to the public because it is being used as a military camp. Although there had been some dispute over security, the recently growing popularity of the island brought by more and more positive reviews it has garnered over the years from the online community is enough indication that it could be a potential vacation destination on your next summer trip. There are cottages in the island that you could rent overnight especially that camping is not allowed.
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Malamawi Island in Basilan
Another hidden beauty in Mindanao that is yet to see its own share of crowding tourists is Malamawi Island in Basilan. Contrary to how Basilan has been portrayed negatively in news, the island offers one of the best beach sceneries you will ever see in your lifetime. It is serenity and beauty rolled into one. Once you reach the place, you will really wonder what took you so long to visit place. The accommodation is superb and the experience is just surreal.
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San Vicente, Palawan
Edgar Alan Zeta-Yap of eazytraveler.net
If you fancy long beaches, then this is the place to be. San Vicente is home to one of the best beach destinations in the country, the Long Beach which stretches around 14 kilometers of white sand with clear, blue seawater at the background. Get those panoramic shots ready as you can easily take a picture of one end of the island to another if you are lucky enough to visit the place on a clear day.
Paliton Beach, Siquijor
Photo © Sabrina Iovino | JustOneWayTicket.com
True to the tales of magic and enchantment that Siquijor is famous for is the experience that Paliton Beach offers. With its captivating beauty, no wonder it has earned a commendable reputation among its visitors. It does not only offer the beauty of white sand beaches and crystal clear sea water. It also gives you the best getaway especially that Siquijor is one of the remaining island province in the country that has remained, to this day, tied to traditions.
Caramoan, Camarines Sur
Lahos Island / Photo by Brian Flores
Matukad Island / Photo by Brian Flores
Looking for another fun island vacation experience in your next holiday trip? You might want to explore Caramoan which has rapidly gained prominence among locals and foreign visitor. There are just a lot of things to do in the island if marveling at its beautiful white sand beaches is not enough for you. Aside from the almost unlimited beach activities to spend your time on, you can also go caving, rock climbing, trekking and rappelling. You might even find yourself not wanting to leave the island anymore.
Patar Beach in Bolinao, Pangasinan
Photo by Gay General
The trip going to this place is tough and tedious – but it is definitely all worth it. The coastline is just beautiful amidst it not having much maintenance at all considering that it is a pubic beach. You pay, however, for accommodation which could be anywhere from backpackers affordable to the more expensive hotel-type lodging. The mixed view of the sand, the mountain and the sea is just captivating and memorable.[divider]
Gumasa Beach, Sarangani
Isla Jardin Resort / Photo by Gay General
Aside from tuna, another reason to come packing your bags to head to Saranggani is Gumasa Beach. It has been able to maintain the countryside feel of the place but has also been developed to cater to the varying needs of the tourists. The seafood here is recommendable. While enjoying a beach escapade, you can buy from the selling locals who go resort hopping to peddle their catch or just go directly to the nearby wet market and indulge seafood treats at a very affordable price.
Mactan Island, Cebu
Crimson Resort in Mactan
The next time you go to Cebu, do not forget to spend a day or two in Mactan Island. It offers adventure-filled activities that the wild at heart will surely enjoy. You can go jet skiing, parasailing and windsurfing and if these are not for you there are various diving sites you can try. You can also go and visit Olango Island which is ideal for diving and snorkeling. And, of course, if you just want to really relax and sit back, you can always enjoy the wonderful view of white sand beach and the sea while getting a tan and frolicking in the sand.
Dakak Beach in Dapitan, Zamboanga del Norte
Dakak is very ideal for people who want to have a grand beach vacation complete with superb accommodation while enjoying one of the best beaches in the Philippines. It is one of the longest running resorts in the country and, aside from its pristine waters, it has also a lot of activities that visitors could enjoy. For the more adventurous and backpacking tourists, there are also a lot of affordable accommodations around the area.
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Dahican Beach in Mati, Davao Oriental
If you love the sand and the beach and you live to surf, then Dahican Beach is for you. The stretch of white sand is ideal for those who wish to go sun bathing while its big waves are frequented by local and foreign surfers. Accommodation is also not a problem because there are definitely a lot of resorts to choose from depending on your preference. You can go to Amihan sa Dahican, rent out a surf board and get surfing lessons at a very affordable price. If you think you do not have enough spunk to try out this water sport, you can always watch the locals and tourists show off their surfing skills or go skimboarding just along the shore.
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Islas de Gigantes in Carles, Iloilo
Photo by Gay General
If you think one island is not enough, then what about an island hopping experience to visit six islands to marvel at. Because of limited electricity, there is no nightlife. Thus, if you are one of those travelers who have had enough of crowded and noisy beaches, then this place is ideal for you. But there are a lot of things that will definitely pre-occupy you in your stay. After island hopping, you can go caving in nearby caves, go and visit the lighthouse at Bgry. Asluman and a whole lot of beach activities.
White Island, Camiguin
Photo by Gay General
An island paradise that is literally secluded from the main island Camiguin. During high tides, a majority of the White Island disappears but during low tide, the stretch of its white sand could take you minutes to travel. During the day, some locals can be seen putting up their mobile stores for travelling tourists. The island is somehow different from the mainland considering that, as its name suggests, its sand is white whereas the mainland’s is the typical black sand common in Philippines.
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San Antonio, Zambales
Camara Island / Photo by Chris Domingo
Nagsasa Cove/Photo by Brian Flores
If you are planning to go to Zambales, make sure you get to visit both the Anawaning Cove and the Camara Island. Tourists can go and set up camp in Pundquit and from there go on an island hopping adventure to Anawaning and Camara. Make sure to bring you swimming and snorkeling gears with you to make the most of your visit. You can even go skim boarding and surfing. If you are planning to do other activities, a trekking adventure might interest you or capturing every fine details of the islands using your camera.
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Puerto Galera, Mindoro
For years now, Puerto Galera has been gaining prominence among tourists especially Sabang Beach and White Beach. It is definitely not recommended to those who wish to seek peace and quiet. However, for those looking for fun and wild beach nightlife, it is the place to be especially with the numerous restaurants and bars lining the coastline. There are also a lot of accommodations to choose from that fit the most extreme of vacation budgets.
Sambawan Island in Biliran
Photo by Ace Macasero
Sambawan Island is definitely one of the best places to visit when you happen to find time to visit Biliran in Leyte. The place is a postcard beauty replicated into reality with its white sand beach and amazing natural landscape that will surely leave you awe-struck. The place is somehow secluded but there are huts where tourists could stay or you could go for the more adventurous option of camping out on the beach and enjoying the wild in its barest form. Make sure to pack everything you need before going to the beach as there are no stores around.
White Beach in Cagwait, Surigao del Sur
Although the place would require you to travel for hours, it is all worth it. It is beautiful as it is secluded. And just like any other Surigao escapade, the food is just superb. The place, they say and as evident in most pictures taken with an aerial view, forms a clam-like shape. The sand is not as powdery as most beaches in the Philippines, but the water is very clear and as inviting.
Britania Group of Islands in Surigao del Sur
In the province of Surigao lies Britania, a group of islands that offer a complete package of island adventure and getaway. The best way to enjoy the 24 islets of Britania is through an island hopping escapade which would allow tourists to marvel at the pristine and blue waters of Lianga Bay and the white sand beaches of some of the islets. Among the showcased island is Hagonoy which is the farthest which is a spitting image of what one imagines as the perfect “castaway” island. Then, there is also the Naked Island, Buslon, twin Panlangagan and Hiyor Hiyoran.
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Beaches in Quezon Province (Borawan Beach, Kwebang Lampas and Cagbalete Island)
Borawan Beach /Photo by Chris Domingo
If you are looking for an almost endless beach escapade, then the best place to visit is the Quezon Province. Pagbilao, for one, has Patayan Island, Kwebang Lampas, Biliran Sand Bar, Silangang Nayon and Pueblo Por Aplaya to boast of which could all be best enjoyed through an island hopping activity. There is also Borawan Island which is said to combine the beauty of both Boracay and Palawan, thus the name “BoraWan”. And, in Mauban there is Cagbalete Island which is just spectacular in all its all natural and rural beauty.
Matnog beaches in Sorsogon
Subic Beach in Matnog / Photo by Melvin Baroga
Sorsogon, particularly the town of Batnog, boasts of Subic Beach at Calintaan Island and Tiling Island. Although these areas have not been fully developed yet evident in the absence of commercialized accommodations, they can be best enjoyed via island hopping. For the more adventurous at heart, you may stay for a night in a tent or rent a local nipa hut. Aside from the two islands, you can also explore the Calintaan cave and feed the fishes at the Juag Lagoon Marine Sanctuary.
Alubihod Beach in Guimaras
Aside from its mangoes, Guimaras also has the small stretch of white sand beauty of Alubihod Beach to boast of. Just near in proximity in Alubihod are tourist destinations that are worthy of exploring. You can go snorkeling at Ave Maria Island, visit the sea turtles at Lawi Marine Turtle Rescue Center, the cave at Buho Ramirez, explore Natago Beach and the farther Guisi Beach, Tiniguiban Island and SEAFDEC Research Center.
Nakabuang Beach in Sabtang Island, Batanes
There is a reason why Sabtang Island has captured many hearts, that is why it has been featured countless of times not just in online but as well as print media. It boasts of its rock formations, stone houses, cobblestone streets, old church, breathtaking sunset view, the Chamantad Sanctuary and the stunning beauty of the Nakabuang Beach. If you are looking of solitude while surrounded with all the goodness that nature has made, this is definitely the place to be.
Kalanggaman Island in Palompon, Leyte
Every area has its own paradise and that is what Kalanggaman Island is to Palompon. A long strip of island extended by sand bars on both ends that line the blue waters in the western portion of Leyte. From an aerial view, the island literally looks like a bird thus, maybe, the name kalanggaman. The place is just beautiful with its white sand beach and perfect scenery. If planning to go to this island, make sure to bring your own tents and camping equipment, potable water and some extra batteries.
Carabao Island in Romblon
What most people do not know is that Carabao Island is the non-to-popular twin island of the internationally famed Boracay. Although just an hour boat ride away from its twin island, Carabao Island offers a very different experience. It is home to 10,000 locals and it offers a more laidback beach vacation experience. Aside from enjoying the white sand of Hambil, Tinap-an and Lanas beaches, you can also go scuba diving or snorkeling, caving and camping.
Sibang Cove in Calayan Islands, Cagayan
Edgar Alan Zeta-Yap of www.eazytraveler.net
The Calayan Islands in Cagayan is famous for its beaches reputed to be serene and unspoiled by overly commercialized tourism. It boasts of gorgeous rugged cliffs and rock formations which are as breathtaking as those you see in postcards. The most recommended is the Sibang Cove with its powdery white sand and the serenity of the place brought by its remoteness. This is perfect for those who love to enjoy the beach in all its bareness in their camping gears and tents.
Sibuyan Island in Romblon
Photo by Gay General
Situated in Sibuyan Sea, thus the name, this island boasts of its white sand beach, Mount Guiting-Guiting and Mount Nailog and its rich and diverse biodiversity which earned its nickname as the Galapagos of Asia owing to its isolation from any islands of the Philippine archipelago. In fact, going to the island in itself is already an adventure as most of the boat trips going to Sibuyan are usually cancelled due to bad weather. But the risk is all worth it especially with all the wonderful sceneries that the island has to offer with its waterfalls, rainforest, stretches of beaches, lagoons and rivers.
Babas Cove in Dinagat Islands
Edgar Alan Zeta-Yap of www.eazytraveler.net
For so many years, Dinagat Islands have become famous because of the socio-political controversy involving Ruben Ecleo Sr. However, more than this, Dinagat has so much more to offer. Among these is the Babas Cove which gives you the ideal actualization of the perfect secluded island getaway. From the cove, you can also explore the mystery filled Bababu Lake. Just recently, it was discovered that the lake has an underwater cave that stretches for 650 meters connecting it to the sea.
Ampere Beach in Dipaculao, Aurora
Photo by Gay General
If most of the famous beaches in the Philippines are covered with fine white sand, Ampere Beach is a rare beautiful case of rocky shores. The rocks come in different shapes and colors which gives the coastline a more appealing look. Rugged rock formations and the mini Ampere Cave are also interesting to explore. The waves can be quite strong and tend to violently splash against the rocks and stones. Catching the sunrise in Ampere is very rewarding as you get to see one of the most beautiful sunrise views in your life.
Sumilon Island in Cebu
Photo by Glenn Manlapaz
During simpler times, Sumilon Island which is three hours away from Cebu used to be fishermen’s refuge during typhoons, thus the name derived from sumilong. Fast forward to the present, it now offers first class accommodation complete with all your must-have amenities. In fact, the place offers your perfect idea for a luxurious island getaway with its outdoor massage, infinity pool and sumptuous food. Since the island is also not that big, you can also go for a 40-minute hike and explore the more natural portions of the island complete with lush forest, rugged cliffs and natural lagoon.
Panampangan Island in Tawi-Tawi
Photo by Basil Villacortes Sali
Contrary to what most people believe, Tawi-Tawi is more than just a conflict zone. In fact, it is actually just like any of your areas in the Philippines – the lifestyle is simple, life is good and the beaches are wonderful. Panampangan Island stretches to a white sand beach that is rarely visited by many tourists, considering the reputation that Tawi-Tawi has earned over the years. Although the three police escort accompanying you on your way to the island can be quite nerve-wracking for some people, the beauty of Panampangan will surely erase all your doubts and fears.
Beaches in Batangas (Laiya Beach, Burot Beach and more)
Photo by Gino Mempin
Laiya is a white cove beach covered with white sand and brimming with all the beauty that Batangas could offer. It is situated in San Juan municipality and is lined with resorts that offer various accommodation and beach activities that cater to a wide range of tourist needs. Aside from its rich marine ecosystem that is ideal for snorkeling or diving, the beach also offers a spectacular view of the lush-green mountain ranges of Batangas.
Apo Reef in Occidental Mindoro
This is definitely one of the best and most wonderful diving sites in the Philippines with 19 diving sites you can explore. The Apo Reef has remained intact and ecologically diverse that it has been declared as a protected site and is administered as the Apo Reef Natural Park. It is also considered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around the reefs are uninhabited islands of Apo Island, Apo Menor and Cayos del Bajo.
Hundred Islands in Alaminos, Pangasinan
Photo by Mark Albert Alejo Cruz
The Hundred Islands in Pangasinan has been making good impressions among local and foreign tourists. During high tide, island head count is 123 while its 124 during low tide. Cabarruyan Island, which is the largest of all the islands, is considered to be the “mother” island of the group. The islands which are best enjoyed through island hopping have been declared as one of the Philippine’s national parks. While island hopping, you can also try snorkeling, fish feeding, swimming and explore some of the islands’ caves and cliffs.
Tingko Beach in Alcoy, Cebu
Aside from its white sand, Tingko Beach is made even more special because of its location. It is actually placed in a small lagoon just near Mabad-on Reef. The reef which is visible for the surface during low tide and gets submerged in high tide is home to a diverse species of corals, fishes and other marine animals.Tingko’s shorelines stretches for 1,600 meters of sand and limestone. Since it has earned quite a reputation among the locals, it could get crowded during weekends and holidays.
Camotes Islands in the Visayas
Santiago White beach/ Photo from Lanyaw.com
A group of islands found in between Cebu, Leyte and Bohol which is growing more and more popular among tourists. It offers a lot of wonderful diving sites as well as various tourist attractions in some of its islands which include Lake Danao, Mt. Calvary, Greenlake Park, Buho Rock and the underground caves of Guadalupe, Timubo and Bukilat.
Palumbanes Island in Catanduanes
There is still a place in this world that is devoid of the technological nuances of this generation. And if you are looking for this kind of escape, Palumbanes Island is your ideal spot. The island is actually a province of small fisherfolk villages. The Bitaog Beach is a famous getaway spot and is open and free to the public.
Ticao Island in Masbate
Photo from Gov. Salceda FB Fanpage
Somewhere in Masbate separated by a P35 boat ride is the island of Ticao which is home to four towns, old churches and houses with a lot of history to tell and the beauty of nature that is meant to be explored. Aside from the clear waters of the sea, you can also explore Halea Nature Park, Matangtubig Spring and Catandayagan falls to name a few.
Maniwaya Island in Sta. Cruz, Marindque
Photo by Cooper Robles
The travel along in going to this island can be quite daunting but the rest that awaits you in Maniwaya Island can be very rewarding. The island’s sand is not as white and as fine as other white sand beaches in the country but there is already available and affordable accommodation for overnight stay and day tour and the clear sea water perfect for various beach activities. You can go explore the nearby Palad Sandbar and Buyabod Port.
Moalboal beaches in Cebu
Moalboal is actually a municipality which has many wonderful beaches that tourists can enjoy which include Panagsama Beach and White Beach. Both have white sand and clean water but Panagsama Beach has more bars and restaurants while White Beach is just beginning to get more local visitors. However, Moalboal is more popular for its proximity to wonderful diving sites perfect for scuba divers and also for snorkeling and fishfeeding.
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About the Author: WayPH
This is a great list. Best I’ve seen by far (this is exactly how my personal list looks like too and in the same order as well). Great job!
this is the beautiful beaches that I love to visit
i love to go to this place
I love Philippines and love to go to Coron Palawan and El Nido. This will be my next PH travel goals
i love philippine